India Police Rescue 12 Men from Bonded Labour Factory After Months of Abuse
Police in India’s Uttar Pradesh state rescued 12 men who allegedly endured months of forced labour, starvation, and physical abuse inside a disposable plate manufacturing factory. The shocking case has sparked nationwide outrage and renewed concerns about the ongoing problem of bonded labour in the country.
Authorities arrested two suspects in connection with the case. Meanwhile, the factory owner remains at large as police continue their investigation.
Police Raid Exposes Harsh Working Conditions
The case came to light after police received information about workers being held against their will at a factory in Muzaffarnagar district.
Acting on the tip, officials sent an undercover operative to verify the claims. After gathering evidence, police officers, labour department representatives, and district officials carried out a raid on the facility.
During the operation, authorities rescued 12 workers from different regions, including Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, Bihar, Uttarakhand, and Nepal.
Investigators revealed that some victims had remained trapped inside the factory for up to 18 months.
Workers Lured with False Job Promises
According to police, the suspects targeted vulnerable individuals searching for employment at railway stations and public places.
They allegedly promised jobs, food, and accommodation to attract workers. However, once the men arrived at the factory, the accused confiscated their mobile phones and restricted their movement.
Workers reportedly had no freedom to leave the premises and worked long hours under constant supervision.
Victims Allegedly Faced Violence and Starvation
Police described the conditions inside the factory as extremely disturbing.
Authorities stated that workers received only one dry roti each day. In addition, pit bull terriers allegedly guarded the premises to prevent escape attempts.
Investigators also claimed that supervisors beat workers with sticks whenever they asked for wages or tried to leave.
Medical examinations reportedly revealed injuries on several workers, highlighting the severity of the abuse.
Rescued Workers Share Their Ordeal
Several rescued workers described their experiences after gaining freedom.
One worker from Uttarakhand said the victims lived like prisoners and never had permission to leave the factory. Others shared similar accounts of fear, isolation, and mistreatment.
Their testimonies have strengthened the case against the accused and raised fresh concerns about labour exploitation.
Bonded Labour Remains a Serious Concern in India
India outlawed bonded labour nearly five decades ago. Despite the ban, cases continue to emerge in several parts of the country.
Many vulnerable workers still fall victim to fraudulent job offers, debt traps, threats, and coercion. Human rights groups have repeatedly urged stronger enforcement of labour laws and better protection for migrant workers.
The latest rescue operation serves as another reminder that bonded labour remains a significant challenge. Authorities now face growing pressure to ensure justice for the victims and prevent similar abuses in the future.
